Nigeria Governors’ Forum Reaffirms Commitment to Security Amidst Rising Tensions
The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has reiterated its commitment to improving security and protecting lives and property at the sub-national level, as the nation braces for a nationwide protest set to take place from August 1 to 10.
It was gathered that the upcoming protest, driven by the escalating cost of living and economic hardships, has generated significant tension and varied responses from Nigerians. Numerous groups have expressed interest in leading the campaign, highlighting widespread public dissatisfaction.
In a communiqué signed by its Chairman, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and made available to journalists on Thursday, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum emphasized the need for robust security measures to ensure the safety and well-being of citizens within their respective states. This announcement followed the Forum’s meeting early Thursday morning.
During the meeting, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum received a presentation from the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Mohammed Pate, on the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Programme.
Pate provided updates on several key initiatives, including the Sector-Wide Approach, the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund, Primary Health Care Revitalisation, and National Supply Chain Management.
The governors reiterated their commitment to enhancing health outcomes for all Nigerians.
The communiqué read in part, “The NGF received a briefing from the National Security Adviser’s office on the current security situation in the country. The NSA noted the growing momentum for a planned protest demanding government attention. The NSA is committed to supporting the governors in improving security architecture at the sub-national level. The governors thanked the NSA and reaffirmed their commitment to enhance the security of lives and properties at the sub-national level.”
Additionally, members received the new Country Director of the World Bank, Mr. Ndiame Diop, and his team. They presented the bank’s various programmes currently being implemented in the states, including HOPE (Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equality), Food and Nutrition Security, and SPIN (Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria Products).
The governors welcomed the new Country Director and assured him of their continued support for these programmes.
The 36 state governors were also briefed by the body of State Attorneys General on the July 11 Supreme Court judgment, which affirmed the financial independence of the 774 local governments.
The communiqué continued, “Members received a briefing from the body of Attorneys General of the 36 states on the Supreme Court ruling on the financial autonomy of local governments.”
Furthermore, the governors were briefed by the Nigerian Bar Association on the recent changes in the association’s leadership and other initiatives.
The NBA expressed its commitment to working with the states in defense of democracy and the rule of law. The communiqué noted, “The governors highlighted the importance of such a revered association and the role they play in ensuring effective governance. They assured the governors of their continued collaboration and readiness to provide necessary support.”
As the nation prepares for the planned protests, the NGF’s commitment to security and collaboration with various stakeholders highlights the ongoing efforts to address the challenges faced by Nigerians.
